Pleasant Lake Preserve, Stetson

Kent Hewitt’s gift of the Pleasant Lake Preserve in 2010 assured permanent public access to the 100-acre wooded peninsula and associated 50-acre wetland long enjoyed by boaters, ice fishermen, hunters and hikers. Foot access is via a right-of-way from the preserve parking area off Route 143 through the donor’s beautiful, well-managed woodlot. Winter visitors should note the right-of-way is also used by snowmobiles.

The SRLT completed a selective timber harvest on the peninsula in 2013, and trails were completed in 2014. SRLT’s property is open for hunting and fishing, and non-motorized recreation.

The preserve may also be accessed from the water, taking advantage of the boat launch at the lake outlet dam donated to the town by Mr. Hewitt.

Travel northeast on Route 202 12.5 miles. Turn left on to Route 143 (Orcutt’s store is on the southheast side of the intersection).

Travel west on Route 143, passing the Etna school. After passing under Interstate 95, continue on Route 143 for approx. 7 miles.

At the preserve sign, turn right onto the preserve access road. (If you reach the intersection with Route 222, you have gone 1 mile too far.) The trailhead parking and kiosk are at the top of the hill.